asked the Minister for Finance if he will state when operations will commence on the proposed drainage of the Glyde and Dee Rivers in Counties Louth and Monaghan.

A scheme under the Arterial Drainage Act, 1945, for the Glyde and Dee catchment areas has been designed and will shortly be exhibited in pursuance of the Act. I cannot forecast with accuracy the date upon which actual work on the scheme will commence, but I propose to visit the district next week with a view to securing the utmost possible expedition.